§ 115. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for War how many Spanish anti-Fascists are still detained as prisoners of war at Chorley; and if he will make a statement on the recent hunger strike among them.
§ Mr. LawsonThere are 180 Spanish Republicans still detained at Chorley as prisoners of war. A number of these men have stated that they wish to be released in this country instead of going to France.
197WOn 1st March, 44 of them announced their intention of going on hunger strike if their wishes were not granted. Thirty-five men went on hunger strike on 4th March and abandoned it three days later. The question of the disposal of those who are at present unwilling to go to France is under consideration with the other Departments concerned.